Jobs Boom For Portland Manufacturer

Australia’s largest wind tower manufacturer will double its workforce in the next six months, as the renewable energy industry continues to grow thanks to the Andrews Labor Government’s renewable energy policy.

Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio visited engineering firm Keppel Prince in Portland today to see the work being done to construct the locally produced wind turbine towers.

Keppel Prince will double its wind tower workforce from 100 to 200 workers by the end of 2018, after securing the contract to supply all 15 towers for Tilt Renewables’ Salt Creek Wind Farm at Woorndoo.

In March 2017, the Labor Government supported a $2 million expansion of Keppel Prince Engineering’s wind tower fabrication facility creating 50 new jobs and retaining 80.

Keppel Prince Engineering specialises in the construction, fabrication and maintenance of industrial structures and equipment – making a significant contribution to Victoria’s manufacturing capabilities and the regional economy.

The company has been manufacturing wind towers since 2000 and has produced over 600 wind towers across projects in Victoria, South Australia, and New South Wales.

The Labor Government has legislated renewable energy generation targets of 25 per cent by 2020 and 40 per cent by 2025 further strengthening the future for Victoria’s renewable sector.